As you may be aware, a housing authority is an organized public body that was developed to ensure home quality and safety, set certain restrictions, make housing affordable, and strengthen the diversity of housing in a community. This type of federal or government organization assists many low income families with obtaining affordable homes in urban communities. However, there is often a waiting list that applies to subsidized housing. It is also imperative to fill out an application and become approved. Here are a few helpful terms that may expand your knowledge of housing authority organizations.

Section 8 – Also known as Section 8 of the United States Housing Act, this authorizes housing rental payments to landlords in order to assist low income families and individuals.

Subsidized Housing – This is a form of government housing that assists individuals and families with low incomes. In other words, the federal government aids certain people in need by assisting with home or apartment rental fees.

HUD – This refers to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which is a program that was started to create and implement policies pertaining to affordable public housing and assisted living.

Housing Authority Grievance – A complaint or issue that is filed against the housing authority. This grievance may pertain to a terminated lease, an increase in rent, lack of necessary repairs to the housing unit, or certain late fees regarding rent payments.

FHA Loan – This is a loan that is insured by the Federal Housing Administration. However, you must apply and be accepted before you can acquire this type of home loan. All lenders are FHA-approved and regulated.

Housing authorities have worked hard to become an essential resource in providing assistance to low-income families. They are public companies or corporations that build and run subsidized housing and affordable apartment units for families that need extra aid. To qualify for public assistance by housing authorities, families typically need to meet strict guidelines such as income limits, providing specific paperwork, and much more.
Most section 8 housing or housing authorities are closely associated with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD. This department sponsors and manages funds for families and individuals that require government assistance. Several residents found in these types of homes often are victims of natural disasters whose own homes were destroyed. When an entire community has suffered and work is no longer available, these emergency victims require government aid and funding to relocate to a new community.
Other types of projects that housing authorities might become involved in are community development projects, where they purchase real estate and commission modern buildings. Then they rent out the apartments at affordable rates. The local housing authority association still oversees the daily operation of these buildings, but might not be as involved as with projects that need more development.
Residents of section 8 housing are often required to be employed with a job at a company in order to remain in the building. Some residents are required to show proof that they do have a family living there, and may be asked to find other accommodations if they make a certain income and there are other families that need the assistance more.
To find out more information on emergency accommodations, or your local PHA, visit the company websites online. Websites containing guidelines and contact information should be readily available and at your fingertips.